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Forensic Structural Engineer 

Location: Fairhope, AL (Hybrid)
Company: The Mertens Group, LLC

About Us

The Mertens Group is a forensic engineering and structural consulting firm serving clients throughout the United States. We investigate building failures, construction defects, weather-related damage, moisture intrusion, foundation movement, roof damage, and other structural concerns. Our work involves determining the cause of damage and providing clear, defensible engineering opinions for homeowners, attorneys, insurance professionals, contractors, and property owners.

Position Summary

We are seeking a licensed or license-track Structural Engineer to perform forensic investigations of residential and commercial structures. The successful candidate will conduct site inspections, analyze building conditions, determine causes of distress or damage, prepare technical reports, and communicate findings to clients and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Perform field investigations of residential and commercial structures 
• Evaluate structural distress, settlement, moisture intrusion, roof damage, storm damage, and construction defects 
• Review construction documents, photographs, weather data, and repair records 
• Prepare engineering reports, letters, and expert opinions 
• Develop repair recommendations when appropriate 
• Communicate with clients, contractors, attorneys, insurance representatives, and property owners 
• Conduct occasional travel throughout Alabama and across other states 
• Provide deposition and litigation support as experience develops 

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Civil Engineering with structural emphasis 
• EIT required; PE preferred 
• 2–10+ years of structural engineering experience 
• Strong technical writing skills 
• Comfortable performing roof, attic, crawlspace, and field inspections 
• Ability to safely conduct field investigations, including ladder use, roof access, attic and crawlspace inspections, and lifting/carrying field equipment 
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound professional judgment during field investigations and project execution 
• Experience with forensic engineering, construction defects, or insurance-related investigations is a plus 

Preferred Experience

• Structural assessments 
• Building envelope investigations 
• Residential and light commercial construction 
• Construction defect litigation support 
• Insurance claim investigations 

Benefits

• Flexible work environment 
• Competitive salary 
• Performance-based bonus opportunities 
• Professional development support 
• Opportunity to work directly with firm leadership 
• Potential for rapid career growth in a growing consulting practice

Structural Design Engineer 

Location: Fairhope, AL (Hybrid)
Company: The Mertens Group, LLC

About Us

The Mertens Group provides structural engineering services for residential and light commercial projects throughout the United States. Our work includes structural design, renovations, additions, repairs, specialty structures, and construction support.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Structural Design Engineer to assist with the design and analysis of residential and light commercial structures. The successful candidate will develop calculations, prepare construction documents, coordinate with contractors and architects, and support projects from concept through construction.

Responsibilities

• Design residential and light commercial structures 
• Prepare structural calculations and engineering reports 
• Develop construction drawings and details 
• Design wood, steel, concrete, and masonry structural systems 
• Review shop drawings and respond to contractor questions 
• Conduct field observations and site visits 
• Coordinate with architects, contractors, and owners 
• Assist with permit and code compliance requirements 

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Civil Engineering with structural emphasis 
• EIT required; PE preferred 
• 2-6+ years of structural design experience 
• Familiarity with IBC, IRC, ASCE 7, ACI, AISC, and NDS 
• Strong technical and communication skills 
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously 
• Ability to conduct occasional field observations, including accessing structures, climbing ladders, and obtaining field measurements.

Preferred Experience

• Residential structural design 
• Renovations and additions 
• Foundation design 
• Wood framing design 
• Light commercial structures 
• RISA, Enercalc, RAM, or similar software 

Benefits

• Flexible work environment 
• Competitive salary 
• Performance bonuses 
• Professional development support 
• Direct client interaction 
• Opportunity for advancement within a growing firm